Catch the bouquet

Palace Florists, located at 1305 19th St. NW, emphasizes the versatile ability to create whatever style a bride might be looking for. There are two wedding consultants and two designers who work to make the dreams of every couple a reality.

{mosads}“For couples on a budget, it is better to go with a less modern, contemporary style. To add an artistic twist to a simple look, sticks and grasses can be used,” said Danielle Erickson, the events and floral designer for the shop, which has been open 65 years.

Palace Florists takes the time to make this a special experience for couples. “We are different from other florists because we are family-oriented. We sit down with the couple for an individual consultation. There is only one wedding a weekend, so all our time is dedicated to that wedding,” said Erickson.

For those living in the Northeast neighborhood of the city, Amaryllis Inc., in the complex located at 1625 Eckington Place, has been the premier floral event company. The busy season picks up in March, but the company (open for the past 20 years) stresses that it is capable of weekly orders that can be delivered anywhere in Virginia, D.C. — or even to the Capitol.

“Brides use seasonal flowers such as cherry branches to save on cost. Hydrangeas and roses are always available and come in an abundance of colors. Cream-white is the classic choice that goes with everything,” said Gladys Saculles, the executive assistant.

While traditional is always in, Amaryllis Inc. is able to perfect any style. “We don’t specialize in any certain style. We have done modern to Indian to traditional to outdoor for a more natural look,” Saculles said.

If you are looking for a tropical, exotic style, check out the Secret Garden Florist on M Street in Georgetown or take the time to view beautiful past floral creations on the shop’s website.

The Secret Garden Florist works with experienced designers to help make the wedding experience something new and fresh. According to its website, the shop specializes in orders of “beautiful flowers from Ecuador, Holland, Thailand, Hawaii, New Zealand and South Africa.”

The local Georgetown florist stresses that its goal is to achieve what you are looking for at any budget. This shop conducts business seven days a week and offers delivery anywhere in the U.S.

Greenworks Florist, at 4818 Yuma St. NW, has been making a name for itself by referral since the shop opened 24 years ago.

“We take flowers all the way from production to the setup of the flowers. We also do custom drapery and furnish decors to make the client’s dream take place,” said sales manager Annie Gaye.

Gaye emphasizes that “style is customized” at Greenworks Florist. Past styles have included modern, romantic, classical, even 1950s. Flowers are all about grabbing your interest, catching your eye and reflecting creativity.

“Our most popular flowers are roses, hydrangeas, peonies and calla lilies. We also have a huge variety of orchids. To spice up a simple bouquet, try sweet teas or tulips,” Gaye said.

At 650 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Flowers on the Hill is the closest shop to the Capitol. Passed down for 30 years, Shirel Williams is the current owner.

What sets this shop apart from other florists? “We are a small business, woman-owned and minority-owned,” Williams said.

Working just five to 10 weddings a season, the consultant and the designer at Flowers on the Hill have the time to pay close attention to every detail. Event setup is also possible upon request.

Exploring your options at these florists can make all the difference on the big day.